Alicia Swanson
Franklinton,NC
Summary
Innovative and proactive Instructional Assistant with a strong emphasis on equity, student and family empowerment and a person-centered approach. Skilled in communication, collaboration, and relationship building to create positive and accessible educational experiences. Research-oriented, utilizing data-driven decision-making and evidence-based practices to facilitate student success. Focused on advocacy that promotes independence, fostering partnerships with families to overcome challenges, contributing to continuous student achievement in educational goals, communication, and physical self-reliance.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Assignment Instructional Assistant
Sanford Creek Elementary
09.2022 - Current
- Provide individualized support and tailored care, addressing diverse physical and developmental needs of 9 students
- Collaborate with Related Service Providers, specialists, and families to ensure coordinated care and holistic support
- Create and source resources aligned with each student's educational and developmental needs and goals
- Advocate for students by equipping families and stakeholders with resources, coaching, and strategies to ensure equitable and accessible educational opportunities
- Foster an inclusive environment by assessing individual needs and providing appropriate accomodations, while utilizing a proactive and positive, strengths-oriented approach
- Utilize a combined approach to communication, integrating assistive technology including AAC devices, visual aids, basic ASL, and core boards, while adapting methods to meet individual needs
- Assist with and monitor the proper use of medical equipment, including hearing aids, braces (TLSOs and AFOs), and G-tubes, ensuring comfort and accessibility
- Plan and deliver small group instruction tailored to individual educational goals
Childcare Team Member
Faith Baptist Church
03.2013 - 07.2018
- Taught engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons
- Read to children, and taught simple painting, drawing, crafts, and songs
- Communicated with children's parents and guardians about daily activities, behaviors, and related issues
- Built relationships with numerous families and children representing a range of life stages, needs, and preferences
- Maintained safe environment
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Vance-Granville Community College
Henderson, NC12.2024
Skills
- Person-Centered Approach & Individualized Support
- Strong Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Parent and Stakeholder Collaboration
- Differentiated Instruction to Address Diverse Needs
- Strength-Based Behavioral Support Techniques
- Design and Customization of Educational Resources to Meet Individual Goals
- Crisis Prevention & De-escalation Strategies
- IEP and Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) Implementation
- Advocacy for student and family success
- Commitment to Research and Continuous Professional Development
- In-Depth Knowledge of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Behavioral Health Concerns, and Evidence-Based Practices
- Assistive Technology Integration and Combined Communication Methods
Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training
Training to prevent and manage medium-high risk behavior, and de-escalate crisis situations in educational and caregiving environments
Timeline
Special Assignment Instructional Assistant
Sanford Creek Elementary
09.2022 - Current
Childcare Team Member
Faith Baptist Church
03.2013 - 07.2018
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Vance-Granville Community College
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